I crossed from Paihia to Russell on the Opua Car Ferry, a four minute trip across the Bay but a long way round if I had tried driving.
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| At Russell in the Bay Of Islands |
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| A peaceful view in Russell |
Pompallier House is situated in Russell, but it was still closed when I visited (I was too early in the morning!). It has the reputation of being New Zealand's oldest Roman Catholic building, oldest rammed earth building, and oldest industrial building (it was once used to run a printing press).
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| Pompallier House, Russell |
The Anglican Church at Russell was established in 1836 and claims to be the oldest church in New Zealand. Services are still held here every Sunday.
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| Anglican Church at Russell |
Not far from Russell was Long Beach, a sleepy little cove with houses and holiday homes dotted among pohutukawa trees and nikau palms.
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| Long Beach, near Russell |
I made the decision to travel down the east coast scenic route instead of the main highway. The road was tar-sealed all the way but full of twists and bends - I almost felt like a rally car at times!
There were several small bays to drive past, a lot with homes, but no easy access to any of them until I reached Oakura where I found a shady tree to sit beneath and eat my lunch.
Many of the bays looked similar to this one below.
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| Looking out over Elliot Bay |
From Oakura I headed back to the main road and straight for home, via the Northern Toll Road, the Southern Motorway, and the Waikato Expressway. It was a long hot drive with only a few stops, and I was glad to reach home safely.
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| Tunnels on the Toll Road |
When something offers that you would enjoy doing - just do it!
Margaret
We loved visiting Russell and Opua. So much history there to explore.
ReplyDeleteVery true, Amy. I could have spent longer here exploring everything.
DeleteI love that Pompallier House...and I love your 6th shot...
ReplyDeleteHaha, I had to count to see which photo that was! A lot of New Zealand's coastline is rugged like this, very rocky and not safe for swimming but often it is great for fishing.
DeleteHow lovely that you arrived home safe and sound and with so many beautiful memories ( and photos too). I would love to see the inside of the old church at Russell. ( We named our oldest son Russell although now he goes by the shorter 'Russ'.)
ReplyDeleteThe picture of Elliot Bay is worthy of being on a calendar page! Speaking of which, have you turned your calendar page to December yet? I actually did it today, a day early.
Thanks for the reminder - I had actually forgotten to change my calendar this month :)
DeleteGranny Marigold - It is December 1st here in New Zealand. Margaret - glad you had such a good trip. Pity we weren't able to meet up.
ReplyDeleteNext time Susan I will let you know I am coming. I'd love to meet up with you :)
DeleteSounds a wonderful trip, loved your photo's.
ReplyDeleteThank-you Marlene :)
DeleteKudos to you for doing this trip alone. Many women would be reluctant to do, and you obviously had a great time. Well done!
ReplyDeleteThank-you David. I used to be afraid of going places by myself, but now I reckon if I don't then I will never go anywhere or get to see anything different.
DeleteI love your attitude, Margaret. Don’t let anything hold you back.
ReplyDeleteThere weren’t many people around the areas you visited. That is the time I enjoy exploring too, without the crowds.
Kindred spirits, Marie! Both my daughter and I love getting off the beaten track and exploring. We avoid popular tourist areas as much as we can :)
DeleteI have enjoyed so much to follow you on your trip. So much interesting and beautiful to see. It was a long trip to drive! I like your attitude, do it, when there are some you want to do and have the opportunity!
ReplyDeleteLife is too short not to grab every opportunity as it arises - enjoy each and every day is my new philosophy!
DeleteMore beautiful photos! Loved hearing about your adventure
ReplyDeleteGlad you enjoyed it :)
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